| The Dark Prophecy by Rick Riordan |

PAGES: 310 (Ebook)

SYNOPSIS: The story continues where it left off. Apollo, Calpyso, and Leo are trying to find the next oracle, the Cave of Trophonius. Along the way, they encounter trouble.

RATING: 4.25/5

NON-SPOILERY REVIEW: I loved this book. I loved the Hidden Oracle more (probably because Percy was there) but this was an amazing sequel to that. However, the main issue I had was that the things that happened weren't really that big. It seems like it was a stepping stone for the next books. Still, I love the new characters and the character development of the previous ones (especially Apollo's). I love their relationship and bond with each other. I love the diversity in gender and culture of the new characters. I love how caring Apollo became towards the other characters especially Meg. Also, many lines that Apollo had were funny. The story was fun and exciting. I can't wait for the sequel! 

• I love the concept of Waystation. Why aren't there other safe houses that demigods can stay on if they can build things like that.
• It's funny every time Apollo thinks that the Arrow of Dodona is using the Internet to find out the information he needs. 
• It was funny when Meg called the Yales, Harvards. I love that they can't kill the Yales simply because they are endangered. 
• Is Georgie really Apollo's daughter? I'm really curious!! Damn it, Trophonius!
• Heloise death was very devastating. Of all the characters that could die, Rick Riordan chose an animal which broke my heart so much. Although, she did die bravely, it's very sad for her mate and child.
• The Cave of Trophonius was a very scary oracle. You had to turn crazy before you get your prophecy which is insane.
• Britomartis was an insane goddess. She played so much dangerous tricks to them.
• The story of Agamethus and Trophonius was a devastating one. Sure, it was their fault for trying to steal but nobody deserved what happened to Agamethus. I wish Apollo would have helped them somehow.
• I felt sad for Apollo every time he felt guilty for killing Commodus. He did it for himself but it helped the greater good. It was devastating because Commodus trusted him so much. I wonder what happened to Commodus?
• Livia was one cool elephant. I love how much impact she had on helping the good team.
• The Hunters of Artemis was awesome. I love that they were the backup for this adventure.
• I felt very proud and sad for Apollo during the time that Trophonius decided to give Meg the prophecy. He tried so hard to make Trophonius take him instead but Trophonius had a grudge he did not let go easily. Apollo was willing to sacrifice himself to save Meg. I love their bond and how they interact.
• I love the three peaches! I love how protective they were of Meg. I wonder where the two peaches came from?
• I was amazed when Apollo managed to reveal his true self to help the residents of Waystation. 
• I'm excited to see the New Rome residents for the next installment since they were part of the prophecy.
• I wonder if Jimmy's parentage will be told or used in the future references since it was hinted that he came from another Mythology.
• I was shocked that Meg was able to summon Grover. It was nice seeing Grover again and he's going to be part of another quest that revolves the labyrinth!!

FAVORITE QUOTES

His eyes gleamed with confidence as if to say, 'That's right. I just crawled out of a tunnel, and I still look gorgeous.' 

A banner out front read WILDLY CUTE! For a moment I thought perhaps the zoo staff had heard I was coming and decided to welcome me. 

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

I HAD NO LUCK WITH THE HAIKU. I kept getting stuck on the first line, I don't want to die, and I couldn't think of anything to add. I hate elaborating when the main idea is so perfectly clear. 

GOEST THOU DOWN THIS ROAD TO THE WEST. THOU SHALT SEEST A ROADSIDE STAND WHICH SELLETH FRESH EGGS"Yes?"THIS ROADSIDE STAND IS NOT IMPORTANT. KEEP DRIVING. 

"She is precious to you," said the Oracle. "Would you give your life in exchange for hers?""Yes," I found myself saying. "Yes, I would die to save Meg McCaffrey." 

Peaches pointed to his friend on the right. "Peaches." Then to the baby demon on his left. "Peaches." 

Don't ask me how three karpoi combined forces to drive an automobile. I can't tell you which of them used the wheel, the brake, or the gas pedal. It's not the sort of behavior you expect from edible fruit. 

Meg rested comfortably in a guest room, guarded vigilantly Peaches, Peaches, and Other Peaches.