Book Review: "Spirit Walker" by Michelle Paver

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

When a sickness comes upon the forest Torak goes off to find a cure. Eventually he is sent to the Sea, but a run in with some seal Clan members goes bad and suddenly he is kidnapped by them. All the while Renn and Wolf try to track him.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Torak still feels like an outsider in the Raven Clan. He is used to being on his own and doesn't confide in Renn before leaving.

Renn is mad that Torak left her. She clearly wants him to know that he can rely on her and worries for him.

Wolf returns, having being separated from Torak at the end of the last book. He has been with a wolf pack on the mountain. But he finds Torak is gone, so instead seeks out Renn so there is a different aspect to their relationship.

Bale is a member of the Seal clan, one of the few who take him to the Seal Island. He is only a year older than Torak and the one who he works the hardest to win over. He doesn't trust Torak at first but slowly learns to respect him.

Mage Tenris is the mage of the seal clan. Part of his body is scarred from fire. He quickly becomes a mentor figure to Torak, who finds him much more open than Fin-kedinn ever was.

PACING

The pacing is just as good as the first book. There is trouble from all sides, as Torak realizes someone is hunting him as well as the Seal Clan being an issue. Then there is the search for the cure where Torak has to fight off some animals. And of course there is the mystery villain.

RELATIONSHIPS

There is some conflict with Torak's relationship with Wolf as well as with Renn. Wolf gets so mad at being ignored by Torak that he runs off and leaves him. It is because Torak refused to listen to his warnings.

The same thing happens with Renn, as he argues with her about her suspicions. She doesn't trust the Seal clan and he does. Although Renn doesn't leave, he still ends up ignoring her warnings.

And before that, Renn is mad that he left her behind in the first place. He explains that it's dangerous but she points out it's dangerous everywhere with this new sickness.

BAD LIAR?-SPOILERS

There is one scene where you might nitpick that Torak comes off as dumb. Renn knows the identity of the villain. But Torak refuses to believe her. All because she supposedly has the sickness (she does have one scab on her). To be fair, Torak wants a place to belong (as he doesn't feel he belongs in the Raven Clan). And after all, his father was Seal clan. They are his kin.

TWO STORIES

Since Ren and Torak spend most of the time apart, there are two stories being told. Paver puts these together well as Renn discovers a mystery that ends up being important. I liked this, because Renn didn't get even half the amount of time that Torak got. It weaves well into Torak's story when they realize that a whale seems to hunting someone in particular.

Also, we got to see scenes with her and Wolf, alone. She still feels awkward but tries to communicate like she sees Torak do. It was sweet to see. She has to learn to trust him when he heads in the opposite way that she thought she was supposed to go.

Although it's noted that she still feels like an intruder when Torak and Wolf are back together.

THE LISTENER

In the first book, The Raven Clan mentions a prophecy about Torak being the listener. But Torak doesn't understand the full implications. He has various out of body experiences in this book. He eventually confides in someone who tells him about what he is.

FORESHADOWING

There is a hint that Wolf knows something about Torak that he does not. It is sweetly revealed to Torak in the ending.

TOKOROTH

Torak knows he is being watched, as he hears laughter and a tree is cut down, almost crushing his lean-to. The deep forest clan say “Tokoroth” before leaving him. Eventually Renn shows up and explains what it is. Turns out it was once a person but is now a demon and it only obeys it's creator.

CLIMAX

Torak helps retrieve a root called Silkis that is stuck on a very high and dangerous cliff. Surrounded by eagles protecting their nest as well. After all of this he ends up having to face a surprise villain while Wolf, Renn and Bale watch from afar.

AFTERWARDS

Fin-kedinn finally tells Torak about his Fa and the history of the Soul Eaters setting up the next books.

CONCLUSION

Paver creates another fast paced story where Torak, Renn and Wolf all learn new things about each other, making mistakes along the way. We finally learn the history of the Soul Eaters while also learning about Torak's need for a mentor, a home and a male friend. I give “Spirit Walker” four stars.

Book Review: "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

In prehistoric Europe, twelve year old Torak lives apart from the clans with his Father. But his peaceful existence is suddenly destroyed and Torak is on left on his own until meets an orphan wolf cub and discovers he can communicate with him in a strange way. Then he learns startling new information about himself from the local Raven Clan that sets him on a dangerous journey.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Torak is rather naive about the clans but he is a well trained hunter and knows how to live off of the forest. He never knew his mother but was close to his father. He is treated like an outsider.

Renn is a red haired girl of the Raven clan. She values her bow above all and is rather guarded. It's revealed that she too is an orphan and that the Raven Mage wants her to be a mage. But for some reason, she doesn't want to be one.

Wolf is a young cub who bonds with Torak. He is fun loving and loyal to his pack-brother. He is unaware that Torak is not a wolf but he does note that his pack brother has no tail.

Fin-Keddinn is the leader of the raven clan. He seems to know more than he reveals.

Saeun is the mage of the raven clan. She is old and sharp but not very kind.

Hord is Renn's older brother. He strongly dislikes Torak for unknown reasons.

PACING

The pacing is really good. No pages are wasted. All slower parts are crucial as Torak is rather ignorant of the clans. And when there isn't the threat of being chased by the bear, or a clan, it's nature itself that is the threat.

There are also many good chapters endings that push the story. As well as chapters that switch from Torak's perspective to Wolf's perspective.

TORAK'S WORLD

Paver explains the world that Torak lives in, from the beliefs, how they hunt, to how they live, ect. She does this in extreme detail but she never steps out of the story to do so.

She explains how a temporary shelter is made because Torak has to make one to survive. She explains the about the belief of people have three souls because Torak is watching someone die. Everything applies to the story. So the reader is learning but still pushing the story along.

WOLF'S VIEW

The story sometimes shifts to Wolf's view. This is one of the most memorable parts of the book. Wolf is charming and has his own unique way of seeing things, and his own unique names for things. He calls Torak “Tall Tailless”. Rushing water is called “fast wet”, ect. It was interesting to see his perspective and try to understand it.

Also you get to learn about the behavior of wolves. What they consider rude, polite, happy, sad, and their body language. You can tell a lot of research was done (just as much as in prehistoric Europe.) Anyone who loves animals will instantly fall in love with Wolf.

THE ROLE OF RENN

Renn plays a crucial role to the plot when she reveals a rhyme about the Nanuak, which are three items that Torak needs to find. Once he has them he can go the mountain, offer them to the world Spirit, and hopefully it will deal with the demon possessed bear.

She also ends up putting her life on the line multiple times for him.

THE WANDERER

Renn and Torak come across a crazy man, who doesn't seem to bathe or take care of himself. He just babbles and threatens them. But eventually he offers a clue that in the end helps them.

RENN & TORAK

It doesn't take long for Torak to grow to respect Renn as she puts her life on the line multiple times. There is a scene after they have been reunited where he realizes she must have gone back through the dangerous river twice. He points it out, awed by her. But she just pushes his compliment aside.

Not that their relationship is always easy. Later when Wolf takes the Nanuak and runs away, Torak lashes out at her. Only realizing his mistake soon after. And Renn admits to herself that when Wolf is around, she sometimes feels cut off from Torak and the strange way he communicates with him. But she also learns to respect Wolf as he saves them, multiple times. First from falling ice, and later from the bear.

NOT A VICTIM

It would be easy for Paver to paint Torak as a victim. After all, he grew up away from everyone. He never had any friends. He never knew his mother. The Raven Clan threatens his life. He gets shoved in a position he didn't ask for. And Torak does feel as though this is unjust, he feels fear. But this never overshadows his courage and desire to prove himself. He never comes across as whiny and annoying.

BEFORE THE CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Fin-keddin and other of the Raven clan eventually catch up to him.

Torak has to tell them that when it comes down to it, if he has to sacrifice himself, he will. It's a big step for him, because he hasn't put tons of thought into it before. He was too busy trying to survive, get the Nanuak, and get to the mountain.

Renn does one even better, she stands up for Torak and Wolf when she points out that Holt doesn't know the way. Not even Torak does. So Torak summons Wolf.

Renn's opinion of Torak has completely changed. She stands up against her own brother to side with Torak, who she truly believes in. Also crucial information is revealed about Torak's future.

CLIMAX

Eventually, they reach the mountain and Torak goes on to give the Nanuak to the world Spirit. However a surprising person shows up, trying to stop him. And suddenly Torak has the bear and this person to deal with.

CONCLUSION

Paver creates a fast paced story where threats come from all side. As well as likable characters full of flaws and secrets. She also gives the reader a detailed world, all without ever taking them out of the story. And relationships aren't neglected, as Renn, Torak, and Wolf all have to learn to understand each other. I give “Wolf Brother” four stars.

Book Review: "A Tale of Time City" by Diana Wynne Jones

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Vivian is on a train to stay with Cousin Marty during WWII. But when she arrives in the country instead she meets a boy who takes her away to a place called Time City. Turns out she was mistaken for someone who can save the city, which is big trouble. Vivian just wants to go home but she has to help if she is ever to achieve this.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Vivian is a worrier who can still be quite bold. She is rather practical but learns to take risks.

Jonathan Lee is the used to being treated well and thinks he knows most everything. He is repeatedly described as “Lordly”. Eventually he becomes humbled and his desire to save Time City is genuine.

Sam is younger than Jonathan and rather immature. He loves butter pies and has little self control. He is prone to tantrums when he doesn't get his way. He doesn't really develop.

Elio is an android that works as a servant for Jonathan's household. He becomes a main character later in the book.

Faber John was the founder of time city.

PACING

The story doesn't linger in 1939 as Vivian is quickly kidnapped and taken to Time City. But after that it is rather slow paced. Vivian gets a tour of the city, attends school, gets to live with Jonathan's family not to mention being tutored. She goes on a picnic.

There are plenty of times where we learn important things that contribute to the story—like seeing different time ghosts. It just starts to feel like there is no real urgency to get Vivian home.

A DETAILED WORLD

The world of Time City has different parts, landmarks, ect. It even has a history as well as different explanations of different Eras, such as Iron, Silver and Gold. It's explained as to why different eras are stable while others are unstable and how they are maintained. (Vivian can't go back home because the twentieth century is an unstable era).

There are different types of ghosts which are echoes, like memories. And there are different caskets in each era, which stabilize Time city. It's all very complicated. The detailed world is really where Diana Wynne Jones shines.

TOURIST TRADE

It's mentioned that most inhabitants of the city are just tourists from other times. I found this kind of confusing. How did these people effect their time with the knowledge of time city, as many went to school there? Does everyone know about Time city? Is it impossible to reach? And that's why it doesn't have to be secret?

MESSING UP HISTORY

When Vivian tells Jonathan's parents about when the war started (she pretends to be their cousin who was in the twentieth century) they say it has started too soon. It has gone critical. So basically the people of time city are in charge of keeping things stable. There are a group of people called the Time patrol who send out observers in history.

EXPOSITION

There are many scenes of exposition where Jonathan and Vivian need to learn something, either from Elio, their tutor or Jonathan's father. Normally I wouldn't mind but there is so much of the story where we are being shown things: the city, the day to day going ons of Jonathan's house, ect.

Not that it's not interesting. When Vivian distracts Elio by asking him about how he was made and how he is different from a human, I was curious. I just found there were so many of these scenes and they were not all necessary. I mean, did I like learning about androids? Yes. Was it necessary for the story? No.

FORESHADOWING

There are a few different time ghosts that appear that we know will occur later. The first, being Jonathan and Vivian coming back from a time traveling trip. The second is a huge group of people trying to escape somewhere in a hurry. And thirdly is the man who tries to climb the bell tower. Eventually we see how and why each event happens.

RELATIONSHIPS

I know that the main characters are only children, but I wished at least Vivi and Jonathan had developed a closer relationship. I didn't expect Sam to develop as he felt far too one dimensional.

Jonathan does take Vivian aside and apologize after he realized he messed up. But this is only one scene and Vivian never confides her anxiety about never getting to go home, or not being able to help him save Time City.

A BETRAYAL

There is a characters that Jonathan confides in that turns against him. I barely knew the character so I didn't get to feel shocked. In fact it was rather obvious that this was going to happen as Vivian feels suspicious of this person right away.

REVENGE ON SAM

There is a small side story where Sam steals Vivian's money to eat so many butter pies that he gets ill. Vivian gets revenge twice, first by putting a pie in his face and second by making him eat one when he didn't desire it. It had nothing to do with the story and Sam never learned any lesson. It also made Vivian look childish and selfish.

COUSIN MARTY-SPOILERS

Half way through the story, Vivian gets to return to 1939. But she discovers an ugly truth about her new home. After that, she makes a decision about her future. I thought this should have made a bigger impact on her. But instead they just continue on in their search for the Time Lady. I thought at least after this scene (which had a lot of action) there would have been a scene set aside where Vivian dwelt on the reality of having no home.

A DECEPTION-VAGUE SPOILERS

When Elio decides to travel in time with them, they think they have met a real guardian, only to find they have been tricked. This is a slight hint at what is to come.

VIVIAN'S STAND

It's mentioned early on that there are not a lot of kids in Time City. That's basically why Jonathan is friends with Sam.

Near the climax Vivian suddenly loses her temper, saying how selfish everyone in the city is and how they never help anyone but just stand by and watch. I thought it was kind of out of the blue as Vivian doesn't dwell on the fact that there are so few children in the city.

I just assumed it was because the couples were selfish and didn't want more than one child. It just wasn't a theme of the book.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

The real culprits show up, taking Vivian, Jonathan, and Sam hostage in the clock tower. (They actually witnessed two of them in other times). Sam escapes. Elio uses the time egg to try and stop the villains. Faber John and his wife show up and our villains get sent back in time.

I actually found this part rather confusing-about Faber John I mean. Dr. Wilander (their tutor) shows up and says he has to hold the time egg before he “recollects” who he is. Then the other guardians show up, dissolve and Faber John appears. Turns out he turned himself into different beings in history. That was the confusing part to me.

CONCLUSION

Vivian and Jonathan are likable characters and the story is very unique with a detailed world with its own history and technology. It's so complex that if you don't pay attention you might miss something important. Unfortunately the pacing is slow and there is a lot of exposition. I give “A Tale of Time City” three stars.

Book Review: "Shadow Spinner" by Susan Fletcher

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

When young Marjan goes to the palace to help her auntie Chava set up shop, she tells a story to nearby children. Suddenly she is whisked away where she is inquired about the stories she knows. Marjan reveals a new story that could help save the queen's life. But she doesn't know the whole thing. Now living in the palace, she has to risk the wrath of the sultans mother and sneak out—all the find an old storyteller she originally heard the story from.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Marjan is a teenage muslim girl. After her mother died, her stepfather no longer wanted her, so he hired her out to Jewish family. Because of her crippled leg she is used to being judged and believes she will never marry.

The khatun is the mother of the sultan. She has spies all over the harem and threatens Marjan, wanting to know if Shahrazad has a secret lover. It is eventually revealed that one of her sons was poisoned and killed. Because of this she is constantly trying to find fault with Shahrazad. She want's a wife for her son that she can control.

Shahrazad is the wife of the sultan. She has given him three sons and has continuously told him stories for as long as they have been married.

Dunyazad is Shahrazad younger sister. She would do anything for her sister. She is quite adventurous and bold, but also naive about life outside of the harem.

Zaynab works in the harem taking care of the pigeons. She becomes a friend of Marjan's and saves her from the khatun.

Soraya follows around the khatun. The khatun wants her to be queen.

Ayaz is a boy who helps lead Marjan to the storyteller.

PACING

The story is well paced. It goes back and forth after going to live in the palace. There are scenes within the harem which are not boring but rather eventful as Marjan makes an ally and an enemy. Then it switches to her journey outside the harem in her search for the storyteller.

MARJAN'S MOTHER-SPOILERS

Throughout the story we learn about Marjan's history. First that she was hired out to a Jewish family because her stepfather did not want her when her mother passed away. And then it's revealed that her crippled foot was not an accident.

Eventually we learn about how Marjan feels about her late mother and this applies to Shahrazad. A theme of forgiveness is implied near the climax.

NAIVE GIRLS

Marjan eventually realizes that both Shahrazad and her sister have lived in the harem for so long that they are naive about the real world. This puts her in a position of leadership where she gets to be the one who makes the decisions. Especially when Dunyazad comes with Marjan on one of her trips. This helps with her outer development.

THE RIGHT STORIES?

Marjan worries about the stories she collects, as there are selfish and immoral woman in them. She thinks that they will just make the Sultan more suspicious of woman. But Shahrazad points out that if she told stories that only painted woman in a good light, then he would sense she was trying to manipulate him. She wants to tell stories about all kinds of woman, good and bad.

I found it interesting because Marjan is correct about how stories can influence people. We often believe that they reflect reality and are not aware when we are being manipulated.

STUNNING REVELATIONS

There are two revelations in the story, one about Marjan's past and one about Shahrazad's feelings. Both end up challenging Marjan as she has to learn how to accept these truths. One causes her pain and the other confusion. Eventually she must decide how to live her life by her reactions to this events.

CHAPTER HEADINGS

At the top of each chapter is an extra paragraph, usually about storytelling but sometimes an extra insight into Marjan's life and character. There is a hint about her mother.

But I really liked the ones about storytelling. There is one where she mentions that there are private stories that you only tell yourself while another she says that people take different things from the same story.

SIDE CHARACTERS-SPOILERS

Soraya eventually develops and realizes the Khatun would trust no one, not even a puppet Queen. She eventually comes to Marjan's aid. I admired how even a side character developed.

Ayaz is the only male side character. He does play a use, helping Marjan and Dunyazad sneak back into the place. But I wish he had been more than that, and perhaps developed a friendship with Marjan (especially since she thinks no man would ever want to marry her).

It is hinted that the storyteller may have had feelings for Zaynab. But this doesn't really go anywhere and it's only hinted at near the end.

EVIL OR MENTALLY ILL?

One criticism I have for the story is the depiction of the sultan. He may have been betrayed by a woman in the past but his reaction isn't someone lashing out in pain. It's someone who is evil or mentally deranged.

If the story had been altered to be that the Sultan would never marry because he knew he could never trust anyone, and would execute anyone who deceived him...then Shahrazad would seem as very brave for wanting to marry him and taking on this challenge.

Or perhaps it could have been revealed that he was being manipulated by his mother and was just very weak-willed. He does stand up to her near the end, but their relationship isn't really examined before then.

Marjan never interacts with him until the climax (which makes sense, as she is servant of Shahrazad's not his). So she only gains information from Shahrazad.

THE STORYTELLER-SPOILERS

It turns out that the storyteller is more than meets the eye. When his identity was revealed I think it was supposed to be important. I understand it was to make his stories seem more relevant to the sultan (he originally snuck young woman out of the city so the Sultan could not marry and kill them). Also, Marjan says she thought he was blind, but he is not. I don't think this was ever explained.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Marjan is freed in secret and given money, but she ends up losing it when she is chased. She goes to live with someone she knows but realizes they are going to turn her out. With no money she decides to return to the palace. It sounds brave or maybe just foolish.

She still worries about Shahrazad I suppose, not just herself. I admire her boldness but when she tells the Sultan a story (which is just Shahrazad's story as well as his) I kept thinking, would he really let her go on and tell it? I kept thinking that he was nuts or evil and probably didn't want to be healed.

CONCLUSION

Fletcher creates a well paced story with likable characters and a heroine that develops throughout. Neither Marjan's inner story nor her outer story were neglected. She develops boldness, bravery and leadership while she searches for the lost storyteller and is abused by the Khatun. She also forgives a loved one for a past sin and heals, moving forward. My only criticism is the climax, which seemed a little farfetched to me. As well as the portrayal of the sultan. I give “Shadow Spinner” three and half stars.

Book Review: "The Secret of Platform Thirteen" by Eva Ibbotson

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Three rescuers are sent to retrieve a prince, who nine years ago became trapped in the above world. But they are surprised to find the young prince isn't what they expected. And bringing back to his family may prove harder then expected.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Raymond is the young prince. He has been spoiled his whole life and isn't easily impressed by magic.

Odge Gribble is a young girl from a family of hags. They are supposed to curse people and can ill wish them. But Odge is rather ordinary and doesn't think she is a very good hag.

Ben was raised by Nanny Brown. Both of them work for the Throttle family. Ben is hard working, kind and becomes friends with the rescuers. He is very loyal to his adopted mother.

Mrs. Throttle kidnapped the baby prince and raised him as her own. Unfortunately, she has spoiled him rotten.

Hans is a one eyed ogre that is really strong but actually rather sensitive. He has had the ability to become invisible given to him.

Gurkintrude is one of the fairy people. She dresses strangely, with huge living plants on her hat. She is rather shy and develops in the story.

Cornelius is an old wizard who isn't known for his amazing magical skills.

HUMOR

Ibbotson used her trademark humor throughout the story. She is clever and funny, always making me smile with her original dialogue and blunt honesty. I loved when Odge said they should just wait till the king and queen die and have a republic. That's how bad Raymond was.

EVIL HARPIES

When Raymond fails to come home, the king and queen reluctantly send harpies after him. Although the description of them is quite comical they are far less kind-hearted then our rescuers. They are kind of a ticking time bomb as we are told in advance that if Raymond doesn't come home on time then the harpies will be sent.

CHARACTER ARCS

Not all of the characters have arcs. Hans and Cornelius pretty much stay the same. But Gerkintrude becomes more bold while Odge learns to use her abilities as a hag near the climax. I am not sure if Ben really changes. He does show boldness when protecting an animal. But he didn't seem completely meek before then.

FORESHADOWING

There is a hint of ben's true identity when it's revealed that Nanny Brown is thinking of giving Ben a special letter.

PREDICTABILITY-SPOILERS

The one major flaw of the story is that I knew how it would end. I knew the moment that they met Ben that he would be the real prince. And that selfish Raymond was Mrs. Throttle's real son (which she had given birth to after Ben was kidnapped).

But the thing is, I am such a fan of Mrs. Ibbotson that I still had to read the whole book through. I knew that it would still be amusing and have some original and silly scenes. It was and it did.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

The rescuers plan a distraction with a huge cake and a dance. But chaos ensues, and the end up saving Ben rather then kidnapping Raymond.

CONCLUSION

Ibbotson creates a charming story with likable characters and plenty of funny scenes. But the story is predictable and many of the characters aren't well developed and never have arcs. I give “The secret of Platform Thirteen” three stars.

Book Review: "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" Series overview

SUMMARY

An in depth look at the series full of spoilers. It's quite long, as I don't just explain my criticisms but also give ideas on how the story could have been improved.

CHARACTERS

For the most part, I found the characters two dimensional. Sine Ares is the god of war, he is violent and stupid. Since Zeus is the head god, he is overbearing. Hades got the short end of the stick, so he is vengeful and short tempered. Aphrodite is romantic, emotional and pretty. Artemis is sexist (because: no men allowed). Clarisse is a daughter of Ares, so she is strong but really stupid.

ANNABETH

I was rather indifferent to Annabeth until “The Battle for the Labyrinth” when she became unbearable. She lost her temper with both Percy and Rachel when neither deserved her wrath.

Excuses were constantly made for her as her bad behavior is never addressed. She isn't even allowed to admit to bad judgment as apparently she was never in love with Luke.

She is propped up as someone special and smart all the while she acts inconsistent by being irrational and selfish more often than Clarisse. Also her being smart by adding that she likes architecture is like putting geeky glasses on a model and calling her a genius. It's a lame attempt at character depth.

She actually starts using mathematical terms in the first book, so we can remember she is smart.

LUKE

Ultimately I found Luke obnoxious and sometimes stupid. It was pretty obvious he was a pawn of the Titans (since there were never any hints that anyone was going to abandon the gods' side.)

He barely evolved from pawn to victim when his past was revealed. And even then there was never any real sympathy for him as there isn't much doubt on Percy's side if Luke is right. The reader certainly never wonders if Luke is right about anything all throughout the series.

His visit to Annabeth that's mentioned in "The Last Olympian" was a lame attempt at character development as the real goal was obviously to make Annabeth a victim since she is told she could have saved him, but did not.

RACHEL

One character I actually found interesting and likable. I was curious to know her story as it was obvious there was more than meets the eye.

Unfortunately her only real reason for existing was to cause tension between Percy and Annabeth.

The whole oracle thing felt forced as I didn't really think the dead oracle needed to be replaced with a live one. The set up seemed to work just fine for the first four books and no one hinted at the need for a replacement until we learned of Luke's mom. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

GROVER

Grover basically existed to obsess over Pan. I kind of wanted him to get over it and get a life. Maybe have his relationship with Percy help him grow. But after Pan is found, he is simply referenced as being on the council of Cloven elders. And he is more powerful, or something. And before this, his character wasn't much else. I suppose he was less of a coward near the end but it didn't feel earned.

PERCY

I wish Percy had developed but there was never any chance of him making mistakes and then fixing them.

He never got to misjudge Clarisse and then make it right with her.

He never got to choose to escape the prophecy forced upon him but escaped from by Thalia. I wish Riordan had just presented him a way to escape that didn't involve abandoning Annabeth and Grover on their quest. That would have been an actual choice. This way, he felt more and more like a victim.

The prophecy could have fallen to Nico and forced Percy into a different role then he ever expected. It could cause him to feel guilty for escaping it. So much more could have developed in his character. This could have set out a new timeline for Rachel and her becoming an oracle.

He never got to choose Rachel over Annabeth and realize he had misjudged their ability to have a relationship (she was too obsessed with Luke and too irrational).

He never got to go against the gods wishes. He never got to defy them and prove a prophecy wrong.

Everything about him felt like it was written out by Riordan in advance, and never once did Percy come to life and surprise his author by leading him somewhere new.

RELATIONSHIPS

PERCY & ANNABETH

Percy is paired up with Annabeth from “The Titan's Curse” as it's hinted he has feelings for her and Aphrodite (AKA Riordan) steps in makes it clear to the reader. It's as if to make up for this that Annabeth and Percy have a hard time simply getting along for the next two books in the series.

But Percy falls in love pretty easy. Not much thought seems put into these relationships anyway. Not with him and Calypso. Not with him and Rachel. Not with him and Annabeth.

In fact because of these relationships, Percy comes off as a jerk. He admits he needed Rachel to relax and have fun. To just be himself. But then he acts annoyed at Rachel later on. Like she is giving Annabeth the wrong impression. He never realizes he was giving Rachel the impression they were dating, or at least that he wanted to. Even though he admits he thinks she is gorgeous, that he thinks about her a lot, ect. It seems obvious he has a crush on her, but then it's like Riordan remembered Annabeth was there first, so he had to bring it back to her. He essentially gives Percy no choice in the matter.

Percy gets a vision of Annabeth that saves him, which is Riordan saying Percy has to be in love with her. Because.

Annabeth magically saves Percy from an attack on his weak spot. Because.

Basically it all feels forced and fake. Relationships should feel natural.

Rachel was the closest thing we got to an actual relationship as the two spend time together for the sake of it, and actually enjoy each others company.

PERCY & RACHEL

Rachel takes note that Annabeth has a crush on Percy in “The Battle of the Labyrinth” so she stays clear of Percy. She doesn't make any attempt to steal him, but it's obvious she has a crush on him, and he hints at the same thing admitting he memorized her phone number (meaning he thought about her a lot).

It's obvious in “The Last Olympus” that Percy has chosen her, not Annabeth. And because of that she has pursued a relationship with him. Even though we only had one book and half of another to get to know her, it's obvious she was rather lonely. The ending of their relationship makes no sense and feels forced.

PERCY & GROVER

I don't understand why Grover and Percy were friends, other then the fact that it was Grover's job to keep him safe.

It's odd how little their relationship progresses, seeing how Grover goes on most quests. He is in the first quest, but not in the second, as he needs to be rescued. He goes on the quest with the hunters but still only ever seems to be there so when can get a hint of Pan. Nothing else. In the fourth, he finds Pan, and in the last, he shows up twice in the book. He just points out about Morpheus, so when mortals fall asleep later, we can know why. So he is just used for some exposition.

They make him help Percy defeat a titan so they can show that he has gotten stronger. But it felt kind of out of the blue and unearned. Did finding Pan make him stronger somehow?

PERCY & CHIRON

I wish there were a mentor/student relationship with these two. But Chiron is barely in the books, and he never seems to be a guide or any comfort for Percy. There were obviously secrets kept from Percy so some tension and trust issues should have developed.

PLOT HOLES & INCONSISTENCIES

The story itself is not bad. But there is just so many holes. So many times where a character doesn't do something that we know they should have. Or it's obvious they are being manipulated by the author, simply so a certain plot point can work. Often times characters just act inconsistent with their previous behavior or they act like idiots to further the story. I noticed that in the first book, when Percy doesn't freak out and demand to know about his mom and if she is dead. It made no sense. He should have done so, and then schemed about rescuing her.

Clarisse in “the Sea of Monsters” seemed to be made stupid just so Percy and Tyson could be separated and to make Annabeth look smart. Thalia becoming a hunter in “The Titan's Curse” seemed out of character, just so Annabeth could be protected.

Percy's treatment of Rachel seems out of character too from their second meeting at his new school in “The Battle for the Labyrinth”. He is portrayed as so kind with Tyson, and yet he runs and hides from Rachel for no reason. Then treats her like crap whenever Annabeth shows up. He spends all summer with Rachel but thinks Annabeth should still love him. Because...why? It was all so inconsistent and made Percy look like a jerk.

BAD HUMOR

It's all a matter of taste, but whenever I came across something really stupid, I realizes it was supposed to be funny. Evil franchise stores. Space food killing a massive monster.

It got to a point when I had a hard time taking things seriously. This was a book series where people could die, and yet comical scenes were shoved in weird spots. I like when comedic scenes are sparsely added in a book or movie. It helps in a serious story. And there were a few occasions that made me smile. But those were little scenes, like funny moments of dialogue. If those had been the only points of comedy, it would have been fine. But Riordan just likes to go overboard.

BAD LOGIC

There are a few awkward moments where Riordan steps in to explain something....that just doesn't need explaining. It completely takes you out of the story. I kept thinking, why are you explaining something that has no real importance to the plot?

REWRITE

One obvious sign that a series or story is written badly is that I constantly have the desire to rewrite scenes, add scenes, or change major plot points. I think, if they added “this” then what they wrote would actually make sense.

I had a lot of things I wished to rewrite...

THE LIGHTNING THIEF

Percy could have asked about his mom dying and Chiron would have had to explain she probably wasn't dead. That she was a trap from Hades. Chiron could warn him against confronting Hades so when he disobeyed there could be tension between the two. And Chiron would wish to teach him that he won't always be lucky and he shouldn't be so reckless.

Luke could have gone along on the quest and Percy could have gotten to know him (as well as the reader). This way his betrayal would mean something.

THE SEA OF MONSTERS

Clarisse could have developed a relationship with Percy after “The Sea of Monsters”.

THE TITAN'S CURSE

Annabeth could have chosen to become a hunter, instead of Thalia. With her being estranged from her family and not really close to anyone at camp (except maybe Percy) and losing Luke and perhaps not feeling close to this new Thalia it would make sense for her to try to find a new home.

She could have later fallen in love (with Luke or Percy) and no longer been a hunter and decided how to stop Luke on her own. This could have caused conflict as no one would know just why Annabeth lost her hunter status. I mean good conflict, as Percy was growing a relationship with Rachel and not pursuing Annabeth.

Bianca could have waited longer to be a hunter so we get to know her then understood why she chose to do so. Also then her death would have mattered to the reader.

Also, Percy could have had longer to convince her to go to the camp, so when he failed it made sense that Nico would blame him. And then he would feel guilt because he actually failed, as opposed to how he had two seconds with her before she chose to become a hunter and go on a quest that would get herself killed.

This also may have hit home if Nico had been allowed on the quest and witnessed her death near the end of the book.

I don't think Zoe should have been important. There were too many characters introduced in “The Titan's Curse”.

BATTLE FOR THE LABYRINTH

Thalia could mature, become friends with Percy. The prophecy could have fallen on her or maybe have it pass her. Could be seen as defying a prophecy.

Characters come come and go, but not go away completely. Annabeth could still secretly see Percy and Grover when they need help. Thalia and Clarisse could come in and help on a quest.

Or if they don't go on a quest then they at least help Percy and aid him from afar while other campers become friends with Percy. At least then when the final battle came up we could have some familiarity with other campers besides Annabeth.

THE LAST OLYMPIAN

Rachel could have debated if she really wanted to become an oracle. Or maybe even defied the rules (like Percy when he makes demands of the gods) and pursued a relationship with Percy while still being an oracle. She could have taken him aside and said she would still pursue a relationship in secret. After all, it's never explained why an Oracle cannot marry, it's merely stated by Hermes.

If the gods were right, there relationship could deteriorate later. At least that would have been more true to her character then her just giving up on having any relationships out of the blue and being completely out of character.

Luke could have been spared and have to redeem himself by living. Maybe have Hermes come in and show his son how much he loves them. (The never explain why the gods cannot interfere with there kids, maybe there is a punishment that Hermes is willing to bear).

Nico could have earned the respect of the other campers and been welcomed without Percy having to request it from the gods. That would have been more development then just convincing Hades to join the fight (which may have been crucial to the plot, but felt more like Riordan trying to make Nico finally seem important and redeem himself from being a selfish brat.)

Luke's history could have been hinted at or revealed much earlier, in a different book. By now I really didn't care about him. He had been far too obnoxious and selfish. There was just no justifying his behavior (unless the gods really were not worth defending).

CONCLUSION

The world Riordan created could have been great (you can tell with all of my ideas on rewrites). But the relationship between Annabeth and Percy ends up being forced in the last two books; Most characters are unlikable or two dimensional at best.

Sometimes the author steps in to explain something that does not need to be explained.

The plot is often full of holes and the characters are routinely manipulated to serve an end to the plot.

On the plus side the pacing is good and some people might like Riordan's brand of humor. I give “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” one a half stars.

Book Review: "The Last Olympian" by Rick Riordan

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

The fate of the world rests in the half-bloods as they start the final battle, fighting for the gods against the titans and their allies. The final fates of Luke & Rachel are decided as well.

SIDE CHARACTERS

Grover does not play a huge role in this book. He does show up after going missing to warn about the god Morpheus who is putting people to sleep. And then shows up again to help Percy fight Hyperion.

Rachel has grown closer to Percy over the summer they have spent together. She has taught him about art and they have just gotten to know each other. No quests, just an evolving friendship.

Nico is over Bianca'a death and how Percy let her die. But he is still out for himself. And you can't really blame him, since no one at camp cares for him because of his parentage. He is still rather naive.

INCONSISTENT & INCONSIDERATE PERCY

Percy is still kind of annoying, mainly because of his treatment of Rachel.

He had the choice of spending time with Annabeth or Rachel, all summer. He chose Rachel every time, which tells you a lot. He never chose to confide in Annabeth, never chose to apologize and explain about Calypso. Or explain that there was nothing between him and Rachel. Instead he went off with Rachel: all summer.

And yet whenever Annabeth shows up, suddenly Rachel is a nuisance, something to be explained. And the summer they spent together, well, that never happened. He never flirted. She never flirted. Because Destiny calls and her name is Annabeth.

This bothered me, because Riordan excuses Percy's bad behavior, basically leading Rachel on, by having Rachel explain that she knew they could never be together. How convenient.

LUKE'S BACKSTORY-SPOILERS

Nico and Percy find out more about Luke's backstory. Basically he was abused by his psycho mom (who could see through the mist). He blames Hermes for abandoning them, and not telling him his future, because both his parents know what will happen to him.

Also, Luke's mom tried to become the new oracle, and when it backfired that's how she went crazy. I didn't quite get why Chiron and Hermes would let her do it. Percy says they didn't know about the curse Hades had put on the oracle, but that was no excuse.

Chiron knew it hadn't worked in twenty years and most likely had seen it destroy minds. But Luke's mom bugs them, so they just let her? None of this made any sense to me.

MORE BAD LOGIC

Percy takes the liberty to explain that god's don't have DNA (I know, so obvious, right?) and that it's not creepy at all for demi god kids to date each other. Except if there are kids from the same god. Then that would be creepy.

I don't know why, since they don't share the same DNA (not same human parent, and the god doesn't have any dna). But I am sure it's logical.

PROPHECIES & MULTIPLE HEROES-SPOILERS

At the beginning of the story, we finally get to see the whole prophecy about Percy. All prophecies talk of others besides the one asking for the prophecy (Clarisse's mentioned Percy, Annabeth's mentioned Nico, ect). They talk of others on the quest in question.

Since Percy is obviously a child of the big three maybe they think he gets a special prophecy? And yet no one, not even Chiron, points out what should be obvious from every other prophecy: it is probably about multiple heroes.

I am fine with Percy cheating death and misunderstanding the prophecy. But I am not fine with not in person even speculating about the obvious possibility.

DEATHS OF BACKGROUND CHARACTERS

Riordan has made the mistake of having background characters suddenly have importance in this plot. There are even names of characters I don't recall existing popping up. Maybe they existed before this but they never got more than one mention in the previous books. I get he needed an army for Percy to command, so he needed names. But they are faceless characters who never had any importance. Clarisse is the only side character who got multiple scenes in a book.

A side character that never previously got any lines dies in the beginning of the book. Near the climax, another side character dies. I think this one got one line previously, as well. I didn't really care, and couldn't relate to Annabeth and Percy grieving.

STUPID CLARISSE

In the beginning Clarisse is mad because her group wants loot from a battle. Percy points out how stupid this is, when the end of the world could be tomorrow. He is right of course. But Clarisse still remains her stupid, two dimensional self. Luckily her stupidity is used to cause the death of a side character. I am pretty sure that was the only point. She was conveniently used.

ANNABETH IS DESTINY...& YOU HAVE NO OTHER OPTIONS

I am not going to lie to you. Riordan pretty much makes it so Percy has no choice but to be with Annabeth. Her love interest, Luke is out of the picture. Percy's love interest, Rachel, is out of the picture. And he had to leave Calypso in the last book (who actually got on with Percy).

But oddly enough, he tries to write it off like it's happily ever after. Even though throughout the last two books in the series, they could barely get along. And that wasn't all Percy's fault.

It's just laid on too thick. When he goes in the river styx, it's Annabeth's vision that saves him...because they are destined to be together. It doesn't matter that they can't carry on a conversation without her being irrational or losing her temper. It's destiny I tell you.

Annabeth saves Percy from getting attacked in his one weak spot...because she had a special feeling. A special feeling that is never explained. It's magical destiny. Or something.

RACHEL'S FATE-SPOILERS

Rachel becomes the new oracle, since the last one was a dead corpse. She thanks Percy but says she wasn't meant to be with him and she never really liked him or something. She was just drawn to the world of the gods. It's not really coherent.

And when she is told she cannot hang on to anyone (no friends or lovers) she just says, okay, sounds good. No fear. No hesitation. No nothing. It felt so orchestrated.

She was portrayed as being rather lonely before (remember how she mentioned her parents didn't care about her? Which I think why she didn't hesitate in helping Percy.) Turns out she just wanted to be a an Oracle detached from society and forbidden to marry. Who knew?

I NEVER LOVED YOU ANYWAY-SPOILERS

It's quite obvious from the first book that Annabeth has a major crush on Luke. When Percy mentions it to her she gets mad at him. But even after he tries to kill Percy, she still thinks he can be reasoned with. She thinks she can change his mind and then she thinks that he is still alive, even with Kronos taking over his body. It's a stubborn hope that never dies. And if it's questioned she lashes out, too often at Percy.

And then on his deathbed, Luke asks if she ever loved him. (To put this in perspective, Percy says Luke is nineteen in the first book, and I think Annabeth is his age, twelve. So it's doubtful that Luke himself ever felt anything romantic for a child that had yet to go through puberty. But I am ignoring this for now.)

I knew the answer, yes, she loved him. It was obvious. But it was immature, a crush. But she definitely loved him. But Riordan has to set the record straight: nope, she never loved him. She couldn't have. Then she couldn't live happily ever after with Percy. It's destiny. And Percy can't have any bad feelings (because Annabeth yelling at him more times than anyone can remember doesn't count.)

It was so inconsistent, as though Riordan didn't remember the last four books he had written.

LUKE'S FATE-SPOILERS

So it turns out, Luke dies. I think it was mean to be redemption. But the problem was, I never knew Luke, or cared about him and by the time I learned about him it was far too late. He had been whiny, selfish and arrogant for four books.

My version of redemption was him living on, repenting, and trying to make amends for his selfish ways. Basically rebuilding the relationships he had cut off (not that I got to see any of them.) Not conveniently dying so Percy didn't have to and Annabeth had nothing to keep her from Percy. Which basically was the reason he died.

WHY FIGHT FOR THE GODS?

In book two the idea that the gods are immoral and selfish and use demigods is planted. But it never really goes anywhere. Sure, Percy gets annoyed about secrets being kept from him, but he never stops trusting those in charge. He never questions if he should be going on quests, doing the bidding of the gods.

The argument so far seems to be, the gods are awful yes, but the titans are worse. Not exactly inspiring stuff to make you want to put your life on the line. Promethius makes a case for Percy to change sides, and Percy doesn't really have any argument against it.

Mr. D then contacts Percy and lets the reader know why Percy is fighting to for the gods. The titans are chaos and will destroy Western civilization...eventually. And the gods are order. Even if they are selfish jerks who don't really care about anyone but themselves and just use the demi gods. I felt this was tacked on because Riordan realized Percy didn't really have any motivation and he had forgot about it.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Kronos is defeated. Percy gets the choice to be a god. Big shocker, he says no. Instead he wants the gods to claim all of their kids, and make cabins for them at camp half blood. Hermes points out how naive Percy is, as the gods have existed for thousands of years and never changed. But Percy thinks he is special and they will change for him. Yeah. I am sure that will work out great. Ah, youth.

CONCLUSION

A big part of my problem are the characters and the plot. Those things are kind of important. The characters are often selfish and suffer no consequences for their reckless actions. And they never develop in any realistic way. And when there is some development, it feels unearned and out of the blue. The relationship between Annabeth and Percy feels way too forced. Other crucial characters are swept away without any thought just so they can live happily ever after. I give “The last Olympian” one and half stars.

Book Review: "The Battle of the Labyrinth" by Rick Riordan

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

Percy and his friends are on a quest to stop the invasion of Kronos at Camp Half-blood. But to do so they have to enter a labyrinth which has a mind of it's own.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Percy sometimes comes across as annoying. It's not the victim thing but mainly how he treats Rachel at first. He basically wants to avoid her (even though she can see through mist). Instead of being helpful and kind he seems to think she is troublesome. I didn't get that impression from her at all and his treatment of her was such a far stretch from how he treated Tyson, someone who was a lot more troublesome.

Annabeth spends a lot of the book kind of being a jerk. To Percy about Rachel and Luke. And to Rachel, who has done nothing to deserve her wrath. But she still gets special treatment from Riordan, who thinks she is a genius who can do no wrong.

Rachel is a girl that Percy met previously. She can see through the mist and takes it all in stride that monsters are real. She offers to go along with him on his quest without much thought. But eventually realizes how dangerous things are. She is artsy and kind of odd but still likable.

Grover is really passionate, but mostly useless. Nothing changes much. He just seems to luck in succeeding. If he doesn't find Pan soon he will lose his searcher's license.

Nico is still mad Percy and wants to revive his sister. But a part of him still wants to help Percy.

Quintus is a new swordsmanship teacher. I kind of wanted him to be a mentor figure to Percy, but he just wasn't in the story long enough for that to happen.

WHY ANNABETH?

The whole reason Chiron involved Annabeth and gave her this quest is because she likes architecture. No really. She actually points it out to Percy. And then admits all of her maps of the labyrinth actually make no sense. So...she knows no more than anyone else.

It would be like if someone liked trees and read books about them, so they were chosen to go on a quest in the woods. It's illogical, and feels like Riordan trying to point out how special the main characters are. Annabeth likes architecture so she is special. Grover really, really wants to find Pan. So he is special too.

CALYPSO

Percy gets separated from Annabeth and wakes up on an island. He is injured, and taken care of by a charming girl named Calypso. Although it's a short time, they end up developing feelings for one another. Turns out she is being punished for siding with her family of titans against the gods in the last war. She offers Percy the chance to stay with her. She even points out he could escape the prophecy (that may damn him).

Basically, he could do just like Thalia did. Only she was smart and good because of what she did and Percy would be cowardly. Why does Thalia get to escape but not him?

Also, there wasn't any real chance of Percy staying, as the story would end here. So I didn't think it was necessary to go on about it. I suppose Riordan just wanted to remind us that Percy was a really good person.

Although on the positive side, Calypso does offer some insight, as she asks Percy if he sides with the gods because they are good, or because they are family. He has no real answer, as he knows most of the gods are selfish and don't care about humans.

RECKLESS ANNABETH

There is a scene in the maze where the kids meet a sphinx. But instead of asking riddles, she asks Annabeth a bunch of questions that can be answered factually. Annabeth is doing great on this, and for once it seems like they are catching a break. But she gets furious at the sphinx for not making things harder. So of course, it attacks and almost kills everyone.

This is not only a stupid thing to do, but dangerous as well. But no one cares apparently. There is a slight complaint from Percy when she complains, but then they just forget about it. If this had been Clarisse, everyone would have been furious, and her stupidity would have been proclaimed for all to see. It's just ridiculous that she could get away with such behavior.

HERA'S ANSWER

Annabeth gets to ask Hera a question, so she asks how to navigate the maze. But Hera says the answer is already provided. Percy finally figures it out, but when he reveals this to Annabeth, instead of being grateful she is angry and convinced he is wrong. She belittles Rachel because she is a mortal. Again, she shows arrogance and is as emotional as a daughter of Ares. It becomes harder and harder to understand why anyone likes her.

THE CONCLUSION OF PAN-SPOILERS

Turns out Pan is fading, and that the gods can fade away if everything they stand for is destroyed. Since the modern age forests have been destroyed, I guess that's why Pan is finally dying. There is no solution on how to get back all that was lost in the modern age.

He says Percy and his friends have to take his place now. But what are they supposed to do? Go back before the industrial revolution? Get rid of electricity, running water and cars? Live like a third world country? Nothing is actually explained.

But it's odd that a god could die at all, since we were told previously that it wasn't the case. After all, even monsters just get reborn over and over again.

NICO & BIANCA

Nico finally gets to talk to Bianca. She tells him he can't hold grudges, because it's his fatal flaw (again, spelling it out for you). And does point out the truth that he should be mad at her, and not Percy. Because she is the one who became a hunter, left him, and then died. She explains that he can't blame Percy for her choices. And she is sorry for what she did.

All of that is perfectly fine. But what isn't is what is left out: the reasoning to why Bianca made all of these bad decisions. I expect a heartfelt apology for all her decisions, but instead it was more like, “I'm sorry about everything, now don't be mad.”

She briefly explained to Percy in the last book why she left him, but she never bothers to tell Nico anything at all. So unfortunately, Bianca remains a two dimensional character who still comes off as selfish.

SECOND HAND BIANCA-SPOILERS

Percy gets a late nice Iris call from a stranger. He learns what Nico is up to, trying to bring his sister back from the dead. Turns out that the dead can contact the living somehow (this is never really explained) and it was Bianca who called him. She is worried about her brother.

That's good, as it could have helped develop her character. But since we never see her face to face until her scene with Nico, we just have to assume she loves him. I wish there had been a separate scene with Percy, where she fully expressed her anguish.

CLIMAX

Eventually they escape the labyrinth, having found Daedalus. They return to camp to defend it from an evasion. Quentus and Nico both show up to help and they win. Percy realizes he is distant from Annabeth and he thinks it's because of Calypso (whom he barely knew and never discussed with her) and Rachel (who was really brave, useful and definitely earned Percy's respect if not his friendship). And of course, Annabeth is never held responsible for her own actions, basically her unproven assumptions and her temper. She pushes Percy away, and he doesn't know how to react.

CONCLUSION

Just like the previous books, the story has decent pacing and isn't that bad. But there are the usual plot points that make no sense (like Annabeth being chosen to get involved with the labyrinth because she likes architecture). And unlike the last few books, Percy has gotten less likable while Annabeth has become unbearable. And the attempt to tie up Nico and Bianca's relationship failed miserably. I give “The Battle of the Labyrinth” two stars.

Book Review: "The Titan's Curse" by Rick Riordan

SPOIL-FREE SUMMARY

After a mission to rescue two new demigod kids, Percy and his friends run into the goddess Artemis and her hunters. But when Artemis goes missing, there is a quest to rescue her.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

Percy's anxiety is a big part of this story. Because either he or Thalia could be the one who fulfills the prophecy. Also, he feels lonely without Tyson around which I though was sweet. As well as unsure about his father as he hasn't seen him since they first met. I thought his jealousy towards Thalia and Zoe made him seem rather childish. And it was never really resolved.

Annabeth is only in the beginning and the climax. She still seems to have feelings for Luke.

Thalia is a tough, leather jacket wearing girl. She can be hard to read and often loses her temper. Because of that, her and Percy end up clashing a lot. Supposedly, it's because she is a daughter of Zeus and Percy is the son of Poseidon.

Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, appears as a young girl. Her and the hunters live forever (unless killed in battle) but must give up living with men. She can be rather sexist and seems to have a grudge against the leaders of Camp Half blood. She also kills any male who finds her camp.

Nico de Angelo isn't shocked to find out he is a demigod, as he loves a trading card game about mythology. Instead, he thinks it's awesome. He is naive and doesn't understand the danger associated with his heritage.

Bianca de Angelo is more mature then her brother. This translates to her skepticism and anxiety about the revelation of her heritage. Her main goal is to stay safe.

NO BACKSTORY

I think Riordan wanted to jump right into the action but it didn't have the desired affect. I felt like I was jumping into a book but I had not read the previous one in the series.

When did Thalia become friends with Percy? How did people react to her return? How was she treated at camp?

No history is ever mentioned. That bothered me. I thought it should have been important information. He could have at least inserted some flashbacks.

A COMPLEX RELATIONSHIP?

Since Thalia, Luke and Annabeth all stayed together and eventually made it to Camp Half blood, they were really close. So Thalia should have been shocked about Luke. But we never see her first reaction. We also never gain insight into Luke's character from her.

How did Annabeth and Thalia get on? Especially since both seem to have anger issues.

How does she feel now that years have passed and yet Thalia is the same age? Has that changed their relationship dynamic?

There is no acknowledgment of any of these questions. Instead we witness Thalia crying over Annabeth, and we just have to assume they are close. Because we've never seen it, only been told that they are.

AN IMPORTANT DECISION-SPOILERS

In the beginning of the story, Bianca decides to join Artemis and her hunters. This means she will live forever, never age, and live with the all female group. She joins without any thought or hesitation.

I didn't understand her motivation at all. From what I knew of her, it made no sense. Why would she leave her brother, who has been her only family her entire life?

Not only that, I thought it should have been a shocking decision. But since I didn't really know her character, it had no impact on me but confusion. She later says she thought she would be safe with them, but this just made her seem selfish. She would leave her brother so she, alone, could be safe? She barely knew Percy, and she knew no one at the camp.

Percy too thinks she is selfish at first, then later, for no reason at all, says whatever makes her happy is fine. There is no development of knowledge, no relationship formed. He just changes his mind for no reason.

APHRODITE SAYS ANNABETH

Aphrodite shows up and tells Percy she helped him in his quest. She hints that he is in love with Annabeth, even though Percy isn't quite sure of his own feelings. I found her annoying, especially her pushing one's desires above all else. I wish Percy would have given her more push back although at least he notes the love story she tells is an awful one where innocent people die so a pair of lovers can be together.

It was like he was being told what to do not just by Aphrodite, but Riordan as well. He was making it really clear, if you didn't get it by now: Percy loves Annabeth.

A DEATH

A character we barely know dies and it effects Percy, because this character dies for him. But the reader barely knows the character at all, so it felt awkward. I felt like I should have got to know this character, or at least the character should have gotten close to Percy. Then the death could have made sense, and actually evoked the emotion it was trying to.

But then again, when another character learns of the death (at the end of the book), they freak out and I got the sneaking suspicion that the only reason for this death was so that a character could react to it. Basically the character wasn't important, their death was.

MOM OF THE YEAR

Percy calls his mom to ask for his advice, and she tells her son to do whatever he wants to do. Because...she says he is too old for her to tell him what to do. At fourteen. Right.

She says “follow your heart”. Because that's not generic or dangerous advice. This scene was so badly written and it made little sense. It's not as if he called his mom when he wasn't chosen for a quest to save Grover but went anyway. He suddenly feels guilty about breaking the rules? It wasn't consistent at all.

RANDOM HISTORY

Percy is ready to sneak off when Dyonisus stops him. Then, for some unknown reason, the god reveals his personal history, explaining why he hates heroes. I found it interesting but I didn't understand why it was shared. Mr. D then lets Percy go, and was most likely never going to stop him anyway.

Perhaps the scene was meant to induce sympathy for Mr. D. It didn't really. Yes, he has a wife waiting for him, but the whole adultery thing Percy notes and that Mr. D shrugs off, doesn't really do him any credit. I think the intention was good, to reveal information about Mr. D, but it just made no sense as it wasn't earned.

They should have spent some actual time together, like helping on a quest, or Percy going to him multiple times for advice or something. Instead we got one short interaction and are supposed to believe some respect has magically formed between them.

Later on, Mr. D saves the kids lives. I think that first scene was supposed to make this one make sense. As if somehow Percy had earned his respect. But it wasn't believable.

PERCY PROVES HIS METTLE

Percy ends up saving those on a quest and earning his spot. He is at a space museum so she runs into the souvenir shop. He rips open a bag of space food and tosses it into a monsters open mouth.

It's hard to believe that the monster was at the angle to put it in; didn't turn at the last minute; didn't just spit it out or cough slightly. Or that the small bag was enough to do any damage to a huge monster.

I basically thought the whole thing was a bad joke. Maybe it would have been fine in something less important, but Percy proving himself to the hunters was kind of important.

SIDE TRIP

Percy and company are on a quest to save Annabeth, and they see the hoover dam. Annabeth likes architecture, so they postpone the quest to save her and go sightseeing. It would be respectful to her to stop and sight-see. And disrespectful to continue on the quest to try and save her.

That is the actual logic used. I am not joking. It's “on the way” to go into a huge dam and take a tour.

I think Riordan needed a scene to happen here, because Percy meets a mortal who can see through the mist, and then uses some statues near it to escape. But again, the logic was so laughably bad.

ANNABETH'S FAMILY

Percy and his friends end up getting help from Annabeth's dad, and meeting her stepmother. Both seem like nice and caring people. So was Annabeth lying about what she told Percy before? About how her step mom wanted her gone and her father didn't care? Or have things changed since then? If so, it would have been nice if the stepmother had taken Percy aside and told him to apologize to Annabeth for her.

It could easily make sense. As a child, Annabeth overreacted or misunderstood some events that happened to her. It would only take a sentence or two to explain it, and yet it's forgotten.

A TWIST

Near the end, a character joins the hunters. I don't know if this was supposed to be a shock, but I just found it annoying. After all, there are no hints throughout the story that this character was leaning that way (if anything, they despised the hunters more than most and desired to be mortal more than others).

It was just so another character who was suspected of joining, could be let off the hook. It was red herring. But it just felt like lazy writing.

It shouldn't have been out of the blue, it should have made sense. But it didn't. Instead, it was like, Percy can keep a character he has gotten to know well and get rid of this other one, who he doesn't really get on with anyway.

Also, it felt like running away. As the prophecy can't happen to this character now. It falls on Percy. No one even acknowledges this, as if it's not something horrible for him to have to go through.

ZOE THE HUNTRESS

Zoe is the huntress on the quest. Percy eventually finds out that she was betrayed by a hero, which is why she mistrusts them. She had her heart broken and then got kicked out her family and became a huntress. The problem was, I just never got to know her. Just like Thalia, she was two dimensional. Arrogant and pushy. But a victim, so that's explanation enough. Again, just like Thalia.

CLIMAX-SPOILERS

Annabeth and Artemis are saved. Thalia confronts Luke, but it's rather underwhelming. Unlike Annabeth, she has no qualms about trying to kill him. One character dies, another becomes a hunter. I didn't really care about either. I felt it was tossing away of a new character without little thought.

CONCLUSION

The story itself isn't bad. The pacing is good and Riordan tries to resolve things with Annabeth and her father. But big events of the story are awkwardly written. Mainly a character we barely know making a life changing decision that makes no sense and then dying just so someone can freak out about it. Not to mention the easily tossing away of a new character with little thought. Two characters die and I felt nothing for them. A sign of shallow characters. I give “The Titan's Curse” two stars.