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The Heroes of Olympus: The Blood of Olympus
Date: Monday, December 21, 2015
Time: 9:21 PM
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: Though the Greek and Roman crew-members of the Argo II have made their progress in their many quests, they still seem no closer to defeating the earth mother, Gaea. Her giants have risen - all of them, and they're stronger than ever. They must be stopped before the Feast of Spes, when Gaea plans to have two demigods sacrificed in Athens. She needs their blood - the blood of Olympus - in order to wake.
The demigods are having more frequent visions of a terrible battle at Camp Half-Blood. The Roman legion from Camp Jupiter, led by Octavian, is almost within striking distance. Though it is tempting to take the Athena Parthenos to Athens to use as a secret weapon, the friends know that the huge statue belongs back on Long Island, where it might be able to stop a war between the two camps.
The Athena Parthenos will go west; the Argo II will go east. The gods, still suffering from multiple personality disorder, are useless. How can a handful of young demigods hope to persevere against Gaea's army of powerful giants? As dangerous as it is to head to Athens, they have no other option. They have sacrificed too much already.
And if Gaea wakes, it is game over.
Review: First, let me start by saying what an amazing roller coaster of reading it's bee, making my way through Riordan's work. It's been quite the experience, to have visited Percy Jackson and seen him develop into a hero alongside Annabeth and Grover, with many other heroes by his side, to seeing Carter and Sadie fight Chaos in the Kane Chronicles, to now, seeing even more heroes - Jason, Piper, Frank, Hazel, Leo, Reyna, Nico, Coach Hedge - come to the forefront and fight their demons, their enemies, their tears and come out better, stronger, and more powerful than ever, it's been something I'll never forget, and Riordan has most definitely become an author I would recommend every single time. But even of my soppy show of emotion, I've got a finale to review..
That is, of course, easier said than done, since Blood of Olympus delivered so much more than I ever could have expected it too, it both blew my mind and kept me firmly in it's grasp, it was both beautiful and hilarious and I've come to expect such great things from Riordan that I am still surprised when he continues to deliver. I'd have to say the most enjoyable thing about Blood of Olympus was having perspectives we hadn't had before, seen in awhile, or were underrated, and I think this only lifted the novel higher. Jason perspective hadn't been seen since The Lost Hero . Whilst I feel like Jason seemed to be the only person out of seven without a voice, so I was so pleased to see him return - and return in such a different way than we'd left him. His voice seemed so much stronger, so much wiser and more developed, he was not as confident as he once was, he'd been touched, emotionally and physically, draining him quite alot, he'd seen his friends, people he wanted to be a leader for, get hurt, get taken, change in front of his eyes and this all showed in his character, in his feelings, in his actions. It was also of breath of fresh air to finally see his and Piper's relationship from both angles and perspectives, to see that Piper wasn't the only nervous party in their couple and that she wasn't the only one powered on by intimidated by the other power, but there was a level of honesty, of adoration and trust between the two, and it really helped develop and lift their relationship, which only made to compliment the story as a whole.
Talking of perspective, I cannot not talk about how fantastic it was to delve into Nico and Reyna's character more from a person's point of view, to see such damaged and distressed characters comfort each other and trust each other but in a completely platonic and friendship reserved way. Nico's support and and shoulder he gave to Reyna really showed his development most from Percy Jackson and The Olympians - it only highlighted how he was no longer the little scared boy who'd lost his sister, he was powerful, he had strength, and passion, he knew right from wrong, he was confident in himself, day by day, he felt he belonged, and he found a home in the people he knew, and in the people he came to love and for a child of Hades, that is definitely something you don't expect when you first meet him. Reyna's character was also developed so much within a short space of time, seeing - hearing about her background, appreciating the loses she went through, seeing just what powered her, what supported her, seeing her friendship with Nico was just beautiful, and seeing her lead without a doubt, wonderful.
I would love to talk about Leo, but I don't think my heart could bear anymore than a few sentences because that boy, so underrated, so talented, so absorbed in his love for his friends, so lost around people he loves, I - *dabs watering eyes* - yeah his development was out of this world, his relationship and connection with everyone was just, perfection, his development, his personality, his utter character, his emotions, his humour... and if I hadn't already known his ending, I would have been a blubbering mess, alas, I was still pretty prone to tears nonetheless, but Leo this guy, there's no Heroes of Olympus without Leo, and I really really cannot thank Riordan enough for his ending. Please bear with me whilst I grab some tissues *sniffles*
Of course, there are other things to discuss, such as the fact that the major battles were both a little disappointing and also so insanely memorising at the same time, well, different battles had different reactions - I do have to say - I was pretty disappointed with the battle against the giants with the gods, because we just didn't see enough, and to have all of them physically there, I had expected much more details, much more actions, so much more amazingness - although Poseidon's shirt was just spot on, that had me howling, but that final battle against Gaea, well oh my days, Jason and Piper's development was just fantastic and out of this world, and Leo, he was just - no, I'll cry again - it was just so good, so so good. I was immersed. I was amazed. I was completely glued to Blood of Olympus at every section. Every perspective was wonderful, every other character we got to meet was wonderful, wrapping up the series with meetings of the Hunters and the Amazons once more, seeing Apollo and Artemis again, seeing friendships and connections being made in the most unlikely places, it was seriously wonderful to read, but I think even though the action was insanely fantastic, and the world is, as always, to die for, literally, there's one very important thing about this series in particular that Riordan focused on..
Heroes of Olympus was never about Percy, Annabeth, Jason, Piper, Frank, Hazel, and Leo. It was never just about their quest, or their roles in the great battle, it was about everyone, Greek or Roman, friends and allies and how no matter who you are, no matter where you're from, no matter what god you represent, you can be a hero, Nico, the perfect example - who would have thought that the brooding son of death could not only develop and created friendships, but find a family, find people he love and would die for? Who would have thought that he would step out of the shadows and fight, confidently and bravely for his future? Coach Hedge - who would have seen loud-mouth, unbearing and always in the way Satyr becoming the character he was, full of love and adoration for the seven, but always serious and father-like, the hilarious joker when needed, but the support that was needed too. Every character in the Heroes of Olympus have the chance to be a hero, even Octavian, he least likely of all, played a large part. Riordan proved that anyone can be a hero, as long as you have something or someone to fight for.
Riordan brings his work alive with his characters, that is without a doubt the truth. His world is always perfect, always vivid, always easy to imagine. I feel like I am there, with the characters when I read his work, and his writing is so digestable, so absorbable, if those even a word, he's just a genius. Heroes of Olympus higlighted and developed characters and plot lines I could only have dreamed of, he created world savers out of scared, underrated characters, and he created love for him in me that will, for as long as he keeps writing, stay firmly in my heart. Blood of Olympus, despite of minor issues, which completely boils down to personal preference, was perfect and to not state it as so is a crime.Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Blood of Olympus, The Heroes of Olympus, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The House of Hades
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2015
Time: 11:12 PM
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 4.5/5
Synopsis: At the conclusion of The Mark of Athena, Annabeth and Percy tumble into a pit leading straight to the Underworld. The other five demigods have to put aside their grief and follow Percy's instructions to find the mortal side of the Doors of Death. If they can fight their way through the Gaea's forces, and Percy and Annabeth can survive the House of Hades, then the seven will be able to seal the Doors both sides and prevent the giants from raising Gaea. But, Leo wonders, if the Doors are sealed how will Percy and Annabeth be able to escape?
They have no choice. If the demigods don't succeed, Gaea's armies will never die. They have no time. In about a month, the Romans will march on Camp Half-Blood. The stakes are higher than ever in this adventure that dives into depths of Tartarus.
Review: The Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan is one of my favourite series to date, so it comes as no surprise hat I was very excited for The House of Hades, the sequel to The Mark of Athena which I consider as the best in the series so far, So far, I have given five stars to each book in the series, and with the cliffhanger in the last book, I was expecting my heart to be pounding at every turn.
For some reason, I wasn't so excited whilst reading the book. I just kept turning page after page, but it it just didn't hold the same pizzazz for me as the The Lost Hero , The Son of Neptune and The Mark of Athena. My heart wasn't racing, but because I was curious I read until the end. I wasn't bored exactly, it just wasn't as exciting for me, Or maybe I just needed a more stimulating visualisation of the place.
The House of Hades' twists and turns didn't surprise me much. There wasn't any moment where I was going, "Oh my God! I didn't see that!" It was just steady reading all the way and after reading it, I wasn't going, "You have to read this!" Such a buzzkill. That twist with Nico wasn't so surprising because there were clues throughout the book. However, I am surprised that Rick Riordan included that facet to Nico's personality, which does explain some things about him, but it was definitely unexpected prior to reading the book. Plus, Rick has never delved into that side of personalities before, but I guess it's part of the characters' growth as well? I wonder how readers will react to this, and I look forward to reading other reviews.
One of the new additions to the book, however, are the friendly titan and the giant. They saved Annabeth and Percy's hide, but the story about them ends on a really sad note.
It was a good idea to separate Annabeth and Percy from the other demigods because the latter's powers and prowess were finally highlighted and not overshadowed by the two. The most impressive of them all, however was Hazel. And I am hoping we'll see more great things fro her next time. We see that she has more to her than just being a demigod who helps out Frank. At the same time, Annabeth and Percy were not forgotten. It was great to see their rapport with each other, and how their combined skills and wits make them a great team.
The House of Hades is told from the perspective of the different demigods. I think Rick Riordan must have heard the feedback from the Kane Chronicles' confusing switch of perspectives because at the top of the book beside the page number is the name of the demigod doing the narrative. This was particularly helpful because when I get distracted or stop then resume reading, it was great that didn't have to keep going back to the first page of each chapter just to remember who was talking.
I am thinking that Annabeth and Percy might switch camps with Jason based on all the hints that Rick dropped in the story. However, since they don't know yet that they want to switch, Jason is having a hard time facing the choice he wants and eventually has to make.
The House of Hades has all the necessary elements for another awesome story - lots of action, a cool adventure, some "ugh" gross but interesting tidbits, and great character growth among the demigods. However, I just wasn't getting exciting feeling. But maybe that's just me, from all the hype from the previous three books. I think it's normal for a series to have that one book that's just not at par with the others, and this fourth book is that for me.
What about you, what did you think about The House of Hades?Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The House of Hades, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Mark of Athena
Date:
Time: 10:12 PM
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: 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 masthead, Leo's fantastical creation doesn't appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of their praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace. And that's the only one of her worries. In her pocket, Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving demand: "Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me". Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods ona 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.
Review: Of course I gave this one five stars. Could it be any less? No, not really. It has 580 pages and each one just oozed with pure goodness. I like Rick Riordan with the Percy Jackson series but he was just even better with the Heroes of Olympus series.
In this book, we finally see the seven heroes coming together for their quest. Annabeth and Percy are finally reunited but the Greek and Roman Camps are not exactly on good terms. We also get to know more about the other five heroes, who by the end of the book, I got to know a little bit better.
I was actually looking forward to Athena's Roman children, but apparently there aren't any. This is beautifully and satisfactorily explained in the book and even gives rise to the whole plot. Riordan sure knows how to write cohesive story, with all ends met and satisfied, if not by the end of the book, at least by the end of the series.
Aside from Annabeth, Jason and Percy, the other heroes are Hazel, Piper, Leo, and Frank. I got to know Leo more in the story and aside from Annabeth and Percy, he has become one of my favourite characters as well. The others, not so much. Hazel, Piper, and Frank are nice, but Leo's powers/ talents are really cool. His "new" discoveries as their quest plays out.
Other minor characters made a surprise appearance here. In fact, one god surprised me in particular, because, well he wasn't all that helpful in the previous books. I'll leave the identity of this one for you to discover as you read the book.
The book ends with, well, a hellish discovery on the part of the seven heroes. I actually liked the ending. It makes me anticipate the next book even more. I didn't languish because I am expecting them to emerge victorious in the next book.
Aside from Annabeth, the other four heroes were highlighted more than Jason and Percy. I think that by bringing the others into focus, the importance of their working together and the importance of the skills/powers of the other heroes are highlighted. I am not saying that Jason and Percy did not do great feats throughout the quest. In fact, their powers are shown to a great extent in one event in particular. But the others were more active in the story, especially Leo.
The only part that got me puzzled about the book is the "viewpoint" from four heroes. I thought it will be like the Kane Chronicles' type of story telling but they actually weren't. Each chapter just had a specific hero's name written at the start (and every page of the chapter) but they weren't talking from the first person POV. It was not "I saw..." so that was confusing and it did not exactly lend anything to my reading of the story. But it did not detract from my pleasure so it's okay. I just ignored it.
The Mark of Athena was satisfying and worth every penny, as with the previous two books, The Lost Hero and The Son of Neptune I am not crushing on Percy Jackson, but can I say that he was very suave and cool when he saved Annabeth in THAT instance?Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Mark of Athena, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune
Date:
Time: 7:17 PM
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: "Seven half-bloods shall answer the call. To storm or fire the world must fall. An oath to keep with a final breath. And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death."
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 wished she could ride away from all of 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 hold close to his heart
Beginning at the "other" camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods.
Review: I realised it's been a year since I read The Son of Neptune and read it again weeks ago. Of course you should know by now it's about Percy Jackson. However, once again, Riordan throws a curveball, which somewhat confuses... and leaves us wanting for more. The book churns out another prophecy and because of "this" curveball, you can't help but wonder who that "Son of Neptune" will drown... After all, Percy doesn't drown... can he?
So anyway, Percy wakes up and manages to get to the Roman Camp (Camp Jupiter). For all you new readers, sorry to burst the bubble! But anyway, he manages to get there with no memory just like Jason except for one person: Annabeth. Honestly, the experience of Percy in this book is somewhat parallel to what Jason went through in Camp Half-Blood. It makes me wonder if there will be a battle of strong wills in the next book between the two of them, seeing as they are the primary leaders of both camps. But anyway, I am getting ahead of myself.
So as was previously stated, Jason and Percy were switched by Juno/Hera because she thinks by doing so, the two camps, which usually turn to arms against each other, will learn to fight together and prove to Jupiter/Zeus that the gods need to work with the demigods to fight the enemy: Gaea. In the second book, there is not much mention of Camp Half-Blood because it was devoted entire to presenting Camp Jupiter. After all, we already had six books (including the original Percy Jackson series) to get to know the Greeks so I think it's just right that Riordan let us get to know the other camp.
Percy befriended Frank and Hazel but I won't reveal their backgrounds. You have to buy the book and it is worth of every penny. The three went on a quest as stated by Mars Ultor himself. You'll be surprised at the difference between the Roman and Greek versions of the gods because they are actually different. However, it was only Hera who seemed to recognise Percy completely. When Percy and Mars met at the Camp, the god didn't recognise him.
Anyway, you will all find the juicy details and other interesting tidbits when you read the book.
So do I recommend it? Heck, yeah! The book is a funny, light-hearted, well-written, and PG as always. It's action-packed with a little bit of romantic inclinations, loyalty to friends, and familiar love all over it. I actually said "UGGHAHHHHH!!" when I finished the book. Not very clear. But I said it out of frustration.
Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Son Of Neptune, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Lost Hero
Date: Friday, December 18, 2015
Time: 10:22 PM
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: 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 he, exactly?
Piper has a secret.
Her father has been missing for three days, ever since she had that terrifying nightmare about him being in trouble. Piper doesn't understand her dream,or why her boyfriend suddenly doesn't recognise her. When a freak storm hits during the school trip, unleashing strange creatures and whisking her, Jason and Leo away to some place called Camp Half-Blood, she has a feeling she's going to find out.
Leo has a way with tools.
When he sees 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 bunk mates 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?
Review: So let's get down to business. I am sorry to tell the Percy Jackson lovers that I found the book better. The writing still had that Riordan style I've come to recognise - quirky with lots of pop references and slightly humorous - but it was written better. I didn't find myself saying "pffft" with the story-telling and the villains were not very obvious (okay I figured it out immediately because of the references to "mother earth") like I did with Percy Jackson. The book was written fluidly and it automatically transports you from reality to the place whenever the main characters were.
The story starts with three friends: Jason, Leo and Piper. Jason wakes up with no memory at all but Leo and Piper insists that they've been friends the whole term and that Piper is more than just his friend, if you know what I mean. After an attack by storm spirits, they were rescued by Annabeth (hooray!) and Butch, a new character. They are brought to the Camp Half-Blood and Leo is immediately claimed by his father. Piper takes awhile to be claimed (and I was surprised actually_ whilst Jason.. he seems to have been claimed already but not in Camp Half-Blood. Together, the three of them set out on a quest to rescue the missing goddess because the earth is rising up to destroy Olympus (yet again).
If you can remember in book 5 of the Percy Jackson series, The Last Olympian, Rachel Dare gives the first Great Prophecy as soon as she accepts her role as Seer. And if you remember there will be seven half-bloods, the greatest of their age, who will save Olympus and the world. Now, these three are obviously part of the seven, plus Annabeth in the end. The book leaves you hanging as who the remaining half-bloods are. What, no Percy Jackson?! Well, he's actually missing in book one but the story ends with the campers finally figuring out where he's staying. The story actually has a nice twist that just leaves you wanting more. And no, not once did I mention the twist here in this entry. You gotta get a copy of the book and read it from end to end.
Sorry no other clues here but I can tell you the ending of the plot nicely capped off the loose ends and questions presented throughout the book.
It was a very satisfying book for me and definitely got me looking forward to the next books in the series. Is it worth the penny? No, it's actually worth more than the price because it's really exciting. Yes you can let your children read it because it's all good, clean fun. It's also action-packed and I actually found myself learning more about Greek Mythology/Roman Mythology. So go ahead and grab your copy now!Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Lost Hero
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Blood of Olympus
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: Though the Greek and Roman crew-members of the Argo II have made their progress in their many quests, they still seem no closer to defeating the earth mother, Gaea. Her giants have risen - all of them, and they're stronger than ever. They must be stopped before the Feast of Spes, when Gaea plans to have two demigods sacrificed in Athens. She needs their blood - the blood of Olympus - in order to wake.
The demigods are having more frequent visions of a terrible battle at Camp Half-Blood. The Roman legion from Camp Jupiter, led by Octavian, is almost within striking distance. Though it is tempting to take the Athena Parthenos to Athens to use as a secret weapon, the friends know that the huge statue belongs back on Long Island, where it might be able to stop a war between the two camps.
The Athena Parthenos will go west; the Argo II will go east. The gods, still suffering from multiple personality disorder, are useless. How can a handful of young demigods hope to persevere against Gaea's army of powerful giants? As dangerous as it is to head to Athens, they have no other option. They have sacrificed too much already.
And if Gaea wakes, it is game over.
Review: First, let me start by saying what an amazing roller coaster of reading it's bee, making my way through Riordan's work. It's been quite the experience, to have visited Percy Jackson and seen him develop into a hero alongside Annabeth and Grover, with many other heroes by his side, to seeing Carter and Sadie fight Chaos in the Kane Chronicles, to now, seeing even more heroes - Jason, Piper, Frank, Hazel, Leo, Reyna, Nico, Coach Hedge - come to the forefront and fight their demons, their enemies, their tears and come out better, stronger, and more powerful than ever, it's been something I'll never forget, and Riordan has most definitely become an author I would recommend every single time. But even of my soppy show of emotion, I've got a finale to review..
That is, of course, easier said than done, since Blood of Olympus delivered so much more than I ever could have expected it too, it both blew my mind and kept me firmly in it's grasp, it was both beautiful and hilarious and I've come to expect such great things from Riordan that I am still surprised when he continues to deliver. I'd have to say the most enjoyable thing about Blood of Olympus was having perspectives we hadn't had before, seen in awhile, or were underrated, and I think this only lifted the novel higher. Jason perspective hadn't been seen since The Lost Hero . Whilst I feel like Jason seemed to be the only person out of seven without a voice, so I was so pleased to see him return - and return in such a different way than we'd left him. His voice seemed so much stronger, so much wiser and more developed, he was not as confident as he once was, he'd been touched, emotionally and physically, draining him quite alot, he'd seen his friends, people he wanted to be a leader for, get hurt, get taken, change in front of his eyes and this all showed in his character, in his feelings, in his actions. It was also of breath of fresh air to finally see his and Piper's relationship from both angles and perspectives, to see that Piper wasn't the only nervous party in their couple and that she wasn't the only one powered on by intimidated by the other power, but there was a level of honesty, of adoration and trust between the two, and it really helped develop and lift their relationship, which only made to compliment the story as a whole.
Talking of perspective, I cannot not talk about how fantastic it was to delve into Nico and Reyna's character more from a person's point of view, to see such damaged and distressed characters comfort each other and trust each other but in a completely platonic and friendship reserved way. Nico's support and and shoulder he gave to Reyna really showed his development most from Percy Jackson and The Olympians - it only highlighted how he was no longer the little scared boy who'd lost his sister, he was powerful, he had strength, and passion, he knew right from wrong, he was confident in himself, day by day, he felt he belonged, and he found a home in the people he knew, and in the people he came to love and for a child of Hades, that is definitely something you don't expect when you first meet him. Reyna's character was also developed so much within a short space of time, seeing - hearing about her background, appreciating the loses she went through, seeing just what powered her, what supported her, seeing her friendship with Nico was just beautiful, and seeing her lead without a doubt, wonderful.
I would love to talk about Leo, but I don't think my heart could bear anymore than a few sentences because that boy, so underrated, so talented, so absorbed in his love for his friends, so lost around people he loves, I - *dabs watering eyes* - yeah his development was out of this world, his relationship and connection with everyone was just, perfection, his development, his personality, his utter character, his emotions, his humour... and if I hadn't already known his ending, I would have been a blubbering mess, alas, I was still pretty prone to tears nonetheless, but Leo this guy, there's no Heroes of Olympus without Leo, and I really really cannot thank Riordan enough for his ending. Please bear with me whilst I grab some tissues *sniffles*
Of course, there are other things to discuss, such as the fact that the major battles were both a little disappointing and also so insanely memorising at the same time, well, different battles had different reactions - I do have to say - I was pretty disappointed with the battle against the giants with the gods, because we just didn't see enough, and to have all of them physically there, I had expected much more details, much more actions, so much more amazingness - although Poseidon's shirt was just spot on, that had me howling, but that final battle against Gaea, well oh my days, Jason and Piper's development was just fantastic and out of this world, and Leo, he was just - no, I'll cry again - it was just so good, so so good. I was immersed. I was amazed. I was completely glued to Blood of Olympus at every section. Every perspective was wonderful, every other character we got to meet was wonderful, wrapping up the series with meetings of the Hunters and the Amazons once more, seeing Apollo and Artemis again, seeing friendships and connections being made in the most unlikely places, it was seriously wonderful to read, but I think even though the action was insanely fantastic, and the world is, as always, to die for, literally, there's one very important thing about this series in particular that Riordan focused on..
Heroes of Olympus was never about Percy, Annabeth, Jason, Piper, Frank, Hazel, and Leo. It was never just about their quest, or their roles in the great battle, it was about everyone, Greek or Roman, friends and allies and how no matter who you are, no matter where you're from, no matter what god you represent, you can be a hero, Nico, the perfect example - who would have thought that the brooding son of death could not only develop and created friendships, but find a family, find people he love and would die for? Who would have thought that he would step out of the shadows and fight, confidently and bravely for his future? Coach Hedge - who would have seen loud-mouth, unbearing and always in the way Satyr becoming the character he was, full of love and adoration for the seven, but always serious and father-like, the hilarious joker when needed, but the support that was needed too. Every character in the Heroes of Olympus have the chance to be a hero, even Octavian, he least likely of all, played a large part. Riordan proved that anyone can be a hero, as long as you have something or someone to fight for.
Riordan brings his work alive with his characters, that is without a doubt the truth. His world is always perfect, always vivid, always easy to imagine. I feel like I am there, with the characters when I read his work, and his writing is so digestable, so absorbable, if those even a word, he's just a genius. Heroes of Olympus higlighted and developed characters and plot lines I could only have dreamed of, he created world savers out of scared, underrated characters, and he created love for him in me that will, for as long as he keeps writing, stay firmly in my heart. Blood of Olympus, despite of minor issues, which completely boils down to personal preference, was perfect and to not state it as so is a crime.Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Blood of Olympus, The Heroes of Olympus, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The House of Hades
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 4.5/5
Synopsis: At the conclusion of The Mark of Athena, Annabeth and Percy tumble into a pit leading straight to the Underworld. The other five demigods have to put aside their grief and follow Percy's instructions to find the mortal side of the Doors of Death. If they can fight their way through the Gaea's forces, and Percy and Annabeth can survive the House of Hades, then the seven will be able to seal the Doors both sides and prevent the giants from raising Gaea. But, Leo wonders, if the Doors are sealed how will Percy and Annabeth be able to escape?
They have no choice. If the demigods don't succeed, Gaea's armies will never die. They have no time. In about a month, the Romans will march on Camp Half-Blood. The stakes are higher than ever in this adventure that dives into depths of Tartarus.
Review: The Heroes of Olympus series by Rick Riordan is one of my favourite series to date, so it comes as no surprise hat I was very excited for The House of Hades, the sequel to The Mark of Athena which I consider as the best in the series so far, So far, I have given five stars to each book in the series, and with the cliffhanger in the last book, I was expecting my heart to be pounding at every turn.
For some reason, I wasn't so excited whilst reading the book. I just kept turning page after page, but it it just didn't hold the same pizzazz for me as the The Lost Hero , The Son of Neptune and The Mark of Athena. My heart wasn't racing, but because I was curious I read until the end. I wasn't bored exactly, it just wasn't as exciting for me, Or maybe I just needed a more stimulating visualisation of the place.
The House of Hades' twists and turns didn't surprise me much. There wasn't any moment where I was going, "Oh my God! I didn't see that!" It was just steady reading all the way and after reading it, I wasn't going, "You have to read this!" Such a buzzkill. That twist with Nico wasn't so surprising because there were clues throughout the book. However, I am surprised that Rick Riordan included that facet to Nico's personality, which does explain some things about him, but it was definitely unexpected prior to reading the book. Plus, Rick has never delved into that side of personalities before, but I guess it's part of the characters' growth as well? I wonder how readers will react to this, and I look forward to reading other reviews.
One of the new additions to the book, however, are the friendly titan and the giant. They saved Annabeth and Percy's hide, but the story about them ends on a really sad note.
It was a good idea to separate Annabeth and Percy from the other demigods because the latter's powers and prowess were finally highlighted and not overshadowed by the two. The most impressive of them all, however was Hazel. And I am hoping we'll see more great things fro her next time. We see that she has more to her than just being a demigod who helps out Frank. At the same time, Annabeth and Percy were not forgotten. It was great to see their rapport with each other, and how their combined skills and wits make them a great team.
The House of Hades is told from the perspective of the different demigods. I think Rick Riordan must have heard the feedback from the Kane Chronicles' confusing switch of perspectives because at the top of the book beside the page number is the name of the demigod doing the narrative. This was particularly helpful because when I get distracted or stop then resume reading, it was great that didn't have to keep going back to the first page of each chapter just to remember who was talking.
I am thinking that Annabeth and Percy might switch camps with Jason based on all the hints that Rick dropped in the story. However, since they don't know yet that they want to switch, Jason is having a hard time facing the choice he wants and eventually has to make.
The House of Hades has all the necessary elements for another awesome story - lots of action, a cool adventure, some "ugh" gross but interesting tidbits, and great character growth among the demigods. However, I just wasn't getting exciting feeling. But maybe that's just me, from all the hype from the previous three books. I think it's normal for a series to have that one book that's just not at par with the others, and this fourth book is that for me.
What about you, what did you think about The House of Hades?Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The House of Hades, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Mark of Athena
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: 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 masthead, Leo's fantastical creation doesn't appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of their praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace. And that's the only one of her worries. In her pocket, Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving demand: "Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me". Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods ona 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.
Review: Of course I gave this one five stars. Could it be any less? No, not really. It has 580 pages and each one just oozed with pure goodness. I like Rick Riordan with the Percy Jackson series but he was just even better with the Heroes of Olympus series.
In this book, we finally see the seven heroes coming together for their quest. Annabeth and Percy are finally reunited but the Greek and Roman Camps are not exactly on good terms. We also get to know more about the other five heroes, who by the end of the book, I got to know a little bit better.
I was actually looking forward to Athena's Roman children, but apparently there aren't any. This is beautifully and satisfactorily explained in the book and even gives rise to the whole plot. Riordan sure knows how to write cohesive story, with all ends met and satisfied, if not by the end of the book, at least by the end of the series.
Aside from Annabeth, Jason and Percy, the other heroes are Hazel, Piper, Leo, and Frank. I got to know Leo more in the story and aside from Annabeth and Percy, he has become one of my favourite characters as well. The others, not so much. Hazel, Piper, and Frank are nice, but Leo's powers/ talents are really cool. His "new" discoveries as their quest plays out.
Other minor characters made a surprise appearance here. In fact, one god surprised me in particular, because, well he wasn't all that helpful in the previous books. I'll leave the identity of this one for you to discover as you read the book.
The book ends with, well, a hellish discovery on the part of the seven heroes. I actually liked the ending. It makes me anticipate the next book even more. I didn't languish because I am expecting them to emerge victorious in the next book.
Aside from Annabeth, the other four heroes were highlighted more than Jason and Percy. I think that by bringing the others into focus, the importance of their working together and the importance of the skills/powers of the other heroes are highlighted. I am not saying that Jason and Percy did not do great feats throughout the quest. In fact, their powers are shown to a great extent in one event in particular. But the others were more active in the story, especially Leo.
The only part that got me puzzled about the book is the "viewpoint" from four heroes. I thought it will be like the Kane Chronicles' type of story telling but they actually weren't. Each chapter just had a specific hero's name written at the start (and every page of the chapter) but they weren't talking from the first person POV. It was not "I saw..." so that was confusing and it did not exactly lend anything to my reading of the story. But it did not detract from my pleasure so it's okay. I just ignored it.
The Mark of Athena was satisfying and worth every penny, as with the previous two books, The Lost Hero and The Son of Neptune I am not crushing on Percy Jackson, but can I say that he was very suave and cool when he saved Annabeth in THAT instance?Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Mark of Athena, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: "Seven half-bloods shall answer the call. To storm or fire the world must fall. An oath to keep with a final breath. And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death."
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 wished she could ride away from all of 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 hold close to his heart
Beginning at the "other" camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods.
Review: I realised it's been a year since I read The Son of Neptune and read it again weeks ago. Of course you should know by now it's about Percy Jackson. However, once again, Riordan throws a curveball, which somewhat confuses... and leaves us wanting for more. The book churns out another prophecy and because of "this" curveball, you can't help but wonder who that "Son of Neptune" will drown... After all, Percy doesn't drown... can he?
So anyway, Percy wakes up and manages to get to the Roman Camp (Camp Jupiter). For all you new readers, sorry to burst the bubble! But anyway, he manages to get there with no memory just like Jason except for one person: Annabeth. Honestly, the experience of Percy in this book is somewhat parallel to what Jason went through in Camp Half-Blood. It makes me wonder if there will be a battle of strong wills in the next book between the two of them, seeing as they are the primary leaders of both camps. But anyway, I am getting ahead of myself.
So as was previously stated, Jason and Percy were switched by Juno/Hera because she thinks by doing so, the two camps, which usually turn to arms against each other, will learn to fight together and prove to Jupiter/Zeus that the gods need to work with the demigods to fight the enemy: Gaea. In the second book, there is not much mention of Camp Half-Blood because it was devoted entire to presenting Camp Jupiter. After all, we already had six books (including the original Percy Jackson series) to get to know the Greeks so I think it's just right that Riordan let us get to know the other camp.
Percy befriended Frank and Hazel but I won't reveal their backgrounds. You have to buy the book and it is worth of every penny. The three went on a quest as stated by Mars Ultor himself. You'll be surprised at the difference between the Roman and Greek versions of the gods because they are actually different. However, it was only Hera who seemed to recognise Percy completely. When Percy and Mars met at the Camp, the god didn't recognise him.
Anyway, you will all find the juicy details and other interesting tidbits when you read the book.
So do I recommend it? Heck, yeah! The book is a funny, light-hearted, well-written, and PG as always. It's action-packed with a little bit of romantic inclinations, loyalty to friends, and familiar love all over it. I actually said "UGGHAHHHHH!!" when I finished the book. Not very clear. But I said it out of frustration.
Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Son Of Neptune, Young Adult
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The Heroes of Olympus: The Lost Hero
Author: Rick Riordan
Rating: 5/5
Synopsis: 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 he, exactly?
Piper has a secret.
Her father has been missing for three days, ever since she had that terrifying nightmare about him being in trouble. Piper doesn't understand her dream,or why her boyfriend suddenly doesn't recognise her. When a freak storm hits during the school trip, unleashing strange creatures and whisking her, Jason and Leo away to some place called Camp Half-Blood, she has a feeling she's going to find out.
Leo has a way with tools.
When he sees 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 bunk mates 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?
Review: So let's get down to business. I am sorry to tell the Percy Jackson lovers that I found the book better. The writing still had that Riordan style I've come to recognise - quirky with lots of pop references and slightly humorous - but it was written better. I didn't find myself saying "pffft" with the story-telling and the villains were not very obvious (okay I figured it out immediately because of the references to "mother earth") like I did with Percy Jackson. The book was written fluidly and it automatically transports you from reality to the place whenever the main characters were.
The story starts with three friends: Jason, Leo and Piper. Jason wakes up with no memory at all but Leo and Piper insists that they've been friends the whole term and that Piper is more than just his friend, if you know what I mean. After an attack by storm spirits, they were rescued by Annabeth (hooray!) and Butch, a new character. They are brought to the Camp Half-Blood and Leo is immediately claimed by his father. Piper takes awhile to be claimed (and I was surprised actually_ whilst Jason.. he seems to have been claimed already but not in Camp Half-Blood. Together, the three of them set out on a quest to rescue the missing goddess because the earth is rising up to destroy Olympus (yet again).
If you can remember in book 5 of the Percy Jackson series, The Last Olympian, Rachel Dare gives the first Great Prophecy as soon as she accepts her role as Seer. And if you remember there will be seven half-bloods, the greatest of their age, who will save Olympus and the world. Now, these three are obviously part of the seven, plus Annabeth in the end. The book leaves you hanging as who the remaining half-bloods are. What, no Percy Jackson?! Well, he's actually missing in book one but the story ends with the campers finally figuring out where he's staying. The story actually has a nice twist that just leaves you wanting more. And no, not once did I mention the twist here in this entry. You gotta get a copy of the book and read it from end to end.
Sorry no other clues here but I can tell you the ending of the plot nicely capped off the loose ends and questions presented throughout the book.
It was a very satisfying book for me and definitely got me looking forward to the next books in the series. Is it worth the penny? No, it's actually worth more than the price because it's really exciting. Yes you can let your children read it because it's all good, clean fun. It's also action-packed and I actually found myself learning more about Greek Mythology/Roman Mythology. So go ahead and grab your copy now!Labels: Fantasy, Greek Mythology, Rick Riordan, Roman Mythology, The Heroes of Olympus, The Lost Hero
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