Thursday, 31 May 2018

The Trials of Apollo - The Burning Maze

Author : Rick Riordan

Review:
I am a huge fan of Rick Riordan and follow all his books. Those who have read my earlier reviews  know how much I like this author and also the reason why. In synopsis, he blends mythology in the current day setting so well that along with a gripping plot, you learn a lot about the eccentric Gods and their demeanours. And his sense of humor is terrific. On any gloomy day, pick up one of his books as relexation therapy. You never know when that smile comes on your face and in no time, you are laughing aloud.

Coming to the book itself, this is book 3 in the Trials of Apollo series. The fallen God Apollo is in pursuit of his quest to find the third Oracle, the Sybil of Erythrae. The prophetess is imprisoned in the Labryinth, which for some reason has frequent fire outbursts. The fire outbreak has caused major part of California to go dry and humid, and harming the nature. Apollo has to journey through this burning maze and solve the ciphers to rescue the Sybil. In his mission, he has to suffer grief and part with people who are dear to him. 

The book starts in a very light note and the plot is really gripping. But somewhere towards the end, it starts picking steam and turns serious. There is urgency and pain in the voice of Apollo, as he looses his dear friends, one after another. The transformation of  a detached, cynical God to a caring brother and a loving friend is hard to miss. You empathise with Apollo as he is miserable and helpless, when circumstances go beyond his control.  

Surprisingly, there are deaths, deaths of very prominent characters. Not to give away the plot, I was really surprised that one of the most level headed and leading characters of the Olympus series is brought in and killed. Very unlike Riordan to kill his protogonists. 

To summarize, undoubtedly, one of the better books from Riordan, full of wit, humour and yet at the same time, poignant and moving. If you have not fallen for Apollo by now, you will, by the end of this book. Don't miss this one !!


Recommended :  👍👍


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